Book on Practo

INLAY & ONLAY

What is an Inlay and Onlay?

Inlays and onlays are types of indirect dental restorations made outside the mouth (usually in a dental lab) and then cemented onto the tooth. They are often made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold.
Meet the Team

Inlay

Fits within the cusps (the raised points) of a tooth, similar to a large filling. It restores damage that does not extend to the tooth’s outer edges.

Onlay

Covers one or more cusps and may extend over the biting surface. It’s used when the damage is more extensive, but the tooth doesn’t need a full crown.

When Are Inlays and Onlays Required?

Inlays or onlays are recommended when:
  • The tooth has moderate to large decay or damage that’s too extensive for a filling, but not severe enough to need a crown.
  • A previously filled tooth needs to be replaced with a stronger, more durable solution.
  • You want a long-lasting, natural-looking restoration for back teeth (molars/premolars).
  • The tooth is structurally intact but needs strength and support.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

  • Conserves tooth structure: Unlike crowns, they require less removal of healthy tooth material.
  • Stronger than fillings: More durable and resistant to wear, especially for chewing forces.
  • Long-lasting: Inlays and onlays can last 10–30 years with good care, especially when made of porcelain or gold.
  • Natural appearance: Tooth-colored materials blend well with natural teeth
  • Precision fit: Because they’re custom-made, they fit very snugly and seal the tooth well.

How Are Inlays and Onlays Different from Crowns?

Feature Inlays & Onlays Crowns
Coverage Partial – Inlay fits inside; Onlay covers part of the tooth Full – Covers the entire tooth surface
Tooth Preparation Conservative – Less tooth reduction More aggressive – More tooth is trimmed
Use Case Moderate decay or fracture Severe decay, cracks, or after root canal
Material Porcelain, resin, gold Porcelain, metal, zirconia, or a combo
Longevity 10–30 years (depending on material) 10–15+ years (depending on type)
In summary, inlays and onlays are excellent middle-ground solutions between simple fillings and full crowns — offering strength, aesthetics, and tooth preservation.

For more information

book an appointment

Address:

Shop Number-26, Commercial Complex 2, behind Lenskart Store, Paras Tierea, Sector 137, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201304

Open:

Monday – Sunday,
Thursday Closed
10:30am to 8:30pm IST

Contacts

Facebook-f X-twitter Instagram